Car Hire Birmingham - Mini guide to Birmingham

Touted as the ‘next Atlanta’, Birmingham has done its best to bury its industrial and controversial past to emerge as a modern city complete with dozens of interesting attractions, some charming historic buildings and an exciting nightlife.

For a taste of Birmingham’s past, head southwest to the Historical Fourth Avenue Visitors and Information Center, located in Kelly Ingram Park, where you can arrange guided tours of the area. The nearby African American district is home to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, which has informative exhibits about this turbulent period in Alabama’s history, including the story of Dr Martin Luther King. While in the area, don’t miss the Carver Theatre, housing the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

Pleasant Lynn Park is centrally located in the downtown area and is a welcome respite from the city’s buildings. Also downtown, the art and culture district has many attractions within an easy walk of the park. The Birmingham Museum of Art features contemporary artwork as well as the city’s symphony orchestra and ballet company; while the Alabama Theatre is housed in a magnificently restored historic building. Rounding out the attractions are the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and McWane Science Center.

After the sun goes down, head for the lively Five Points South district. Here you’ll find an amazing variety of restaurants, nightclubs and boutiques offering dining and entertainment for all tastes. The area also has some of Birmingham’s best shopping and street cafés. Additionally, some of Birmingham's oldest and most stately homes can be found in the surrounding streets.